The Importance of Reliance

We’ve all been there. It’s the middle of the week. Assignments are piling up and Friday seems so far away. You feel the stress creep up on you like an itch you can’t scratch when suddenly, a coworker approaches your desk with an earnest smile and quizzical arch of the brow and asks you, “How’s it going?”

What is your response? Usually a modest “fine” or even “great” but never the truth. Why is that?

For most people, (including myself) it’s because they don’t want to appear incompetent or weak. Admitting that you are struggling is a glimpse into the chaotic labyrinth of your mind and you aren’t sure you ever want people to witness it.

Millennials are seen as the multitasking generation. We work harder and faster and take fewer vacations than any other generation to get it all done. There’s no room for vulnerability in the workplace. However, this is not a sentiment you should hold onto. Being honest can be scary but also good for you and those around you!

Has your curiosity peaked yet? Then read on for 5 positive benefits honesty and trust can have on your company!

1. Improved Morale

Have you ever noticed a tightness or heaviness in your chest when you’re feeling stressed out or upset? Do you remember that overwhelming feeling of relief that comes with saying what’s on your mind? Have you ever felt like a pressure cooker right before, ready to explode, and suddenly, that feeling is gone? That’s what allowing yourself to be honest and have faith in others can do. You feel better. Letting others in can feel inappropriate, but doing so causes a visible increase in mood. It allows you to seek reassurance in others, reconnect with your environment, and focus on what’s important.

2. United Workforce

Being candid with your coworkers isn’t just beneficial for you! It also has a positive impact on those that you chose to confide in. It shows that you trust them, which will evoke positive feelings and help you form closer bonds with your colleagues. Keep in mind, that a united workforce is a happy workforce! When you feel that your company and co-workers care about you and vice versa, you look forward to coming to work and help cultivate a happier and more motivating environment.

3. Increased Productivity

Falling behind on a project and unsure of what to do? Ask a colleague for help! Whether it’s simply checking an email for spelling errors or helping put together a presentation, you’ll be surprised by how eager others are to help you. After all, you all have one common goal aka the success of your company! Just make sure to return the favor in the future. Trust is about being able to rely on others and letting them rely on you in return!

4. Reduced Decision-Making Time  

Once you’ve formed lasting bonds with the people around you, it is easier to understand the way their mind works. When it comes to working with others, trust and reliance can reduce your decision-making process. If someone you’ve come to view as hardworking, motivated, and true-to-their word stands behind a decision on a project, then it is easier to come to a conclusion because you genuinely know the person behind the decision. Trust overcomes resistance to change. It allows you to grow and make more ethical decisions.

5. Sense of Purpose

Being able to open up and talk about the issues that are currently on your mind will help you make sense of the trials and tribulations you undergo. You can vocalize where you are currently and where you want to be in the future. This process can give you a sense of purpose and help you understand what you need to do next. This doesn’t mean that you have to “lay everything bare” but it does mean that if you are upset and feel so, admit it. It’s okay to be stressed out. It’s okay to be frustrated. It’s okay to be HUMAN! Honesty about your situation will help you out in the long run and you’ll feel better as a result

There you have it, folks. Reliance and candidacy are pretty great (if I do so say myself). After all, trust is the backbone of all relationships! Having people you know that you can rely on will make you feel more confident, competent, and appreciated. I’m not saying that you have to trust everyone around you. Trust takes time and effort to develop. However, I do believe that if you find yourself being more open and candid with your coworkers you will feel less stressed and more #blessed!

Kate is a junior at Loyola University and is in the process of completing a double major in
marketing and information systems and a minor in creative writing. She is also an intern at improve it! She produces and analyzes weekly digital content for improve it!’s social media platforms. In her free time, Kate enjoys writing, exercise and spending time with her family.